Morocco Deplores Algeria’s Role in Perpetuating Sahara Conflict
Morocco’s foreign Ministry has issued a statement welcoming the UN Security Resolution 2351 on the Sahara and deploring Algeria’s role in perpetuating the conflict.
“Morocco takes note and expresses satisfaction at the unanimous adoption of the UN Security Council resolution 2351,” the statement said while holding Algeria responsible for perpetuating the conflict.
The resolution, adopted unanimously by the 15 members of the Security Council, renews the mandate of the UN mission to the Sahara, the MINURSO, and maintains its role while reaffirming the parameters of the political process as defined in 2007, the statement said.
“The political process should take into account the preeminence of Morocco’s autonomy initiative, which has emanated from serious and credible efforts”, the statement said.
“The resolution highlights the regional dimension of the artificial dispute over Morocco’s sovereignty over the Sahara and points out to the responsibility of neighboring countries, notably Algeria,” the statement added.
The resolution echoes the calls made by the UN Secretary General on Algeria and Mauritania to contribute effectively to settle the Sahara issue, said Morocco’s Foreign Ministry.
Algeria has also been held accountable for the ordeal of the population held in the Polisario-run camps in Tindouf. The resolution has reiterated the need for a census of the camps’ population, said the statement.
In its resolution, the Security Council recognizes that the consolidation of the status quo is not acceptable, and notes further that progress in the negotiations is essential in order to improve the quality of life of the people of Western Sahara in all its aspects.
It also calls upon the parties to resume negotiations under the auspices of the Secretary-General without preconditions and in good faith, taking into account the efforts made since 2006 and subsequent developments, with a view to achieving a just, lasting and mutually acceptable political solution.
